Duterte once again displayed his patent disdain for human rights when he called human rights defenders (HRDs) as "enemies of the State." Combine this label with his previous threats and this will most likely make human rights advocates targets for harm, harassment or even liquidation.

Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has lauded four judges who were named Filipinos of the Year 2018 by the Philippine Daily Inquirer for their courage to uphold judicial independence despite the worsening culture of impunity in the country under Mr. Duterte.